Panto season is just around the corner, and with productions taking place across the region, residents are spoilt for choice.
This year’s pantomimes include Dick Whittington, Snow White and two productions of Jack and the Beanstalk.
We’ve rounded up everything you need to know about south Essex’s 2024/25 pantomimes:
Dick Whittington at The Mill Arts & Events Centre (Rayleigh)
Who: Dick Whittington will be performed by members of Rayleigh Operatic and Dramatic Society. The amateur group puts on productions and events throughout the year.
What: The panto will tell the story of its title character, who arrives in London to fulfil his dreams and finds himself facing off against a monstrously evil villain, Royal Rat.
When: Dick Whittington will run from Thursday 28 November 2024 to Saturday 30 November 2024, with matinee and evening performances.
Who: Panto favourites Sophie Ladds and Ian Hallard will lead the Towngate’s Jack and the Beanstalk ensemble. The pair will play the story’s baddie and dame respectively. They will be joined by Aldan Banyard (Jack), Alice Hoult (Jill), Sophia Ragavelas (Fairy Sugarplum) and Ashley Cavender (Silly Billy).
What: Jack and the Beanstalk will feature everything families expect from their annual pantomime experience, with some stunning scenery, dynamic dancers, a live band and an array of colourful costumes.
When: Jack and the Beanstalk will run from Thursday 28 November 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025, with matinee and evening performances.
Snow White at Thameside Theatre (Grays)
Who: Thurrock’s favourite Dame, Luke Coldham, will return to the theatre for his 8th panto performance as Nurse Nelly. Luke will be joined on stage by a full supporting cast made up of professional actors and dancers as well as three chorus teams of talented young residents.
What: The production will build on the success of previous pantomimes to deliver a show packed full of Christmas joy and audience participation.
When: Snow White will run from Wednesday 4 December 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025, with matinee and evening performances.
Who: The Cliffs production of Jack and the Beanstalk is set to star television presenter, podcaster and DJ, Rylan. The multi-talented star will take on the role of The Spirit of the Beans alongside comedian Aaron James (Silly Simon), Neal Wright (Dame Trot), Nic Greenshields (Fleshcreep), Toby Miles (Jack Trot) and Allana Taylor (Princess Jill).
What: The show will tell the beloved tale of Jack and the Beanstalk with a performance filled wit music, special effects and plenty of audience participation. This year’s production will feature 3D effects made possible with state-of-the-art technology.
When: Jack and the Beanstalk will run from Saturday 14 December 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025, with matinee and evening performances.
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